Melody Jacob

Have you heard of Mpox? Wondering why it's making headlines again? Many of us first learned of mpox (previously known as monkeypox) in 2022, when the largest known outbreak affected approximately 100,000 people across more than 100 nations. While mpox is commonly seen in central and western Africa, the 2022 outbreak expanded fast from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to previously unknown locations. Before the epidemic was contained, the United States alone reported over 32,000 infections and 58 deaths . A new outbreak of mpox has brought it back into the spotlight. What should you know and do about the latest global health emergency? What are your risks? Are vaccinations available? How do you avoid spreading mpox? What is unique about the 2024 mpox outbreak? This time, the virus has a new variant known as Clade 1b that is spreading swiftly. That is why the World Health Organization (WHO) announced a second global health emergency in August 2024. More than 15,600 case...

Understanding Bronchitis and Its Treatment Bronchitis, an upper respiratory infection, often lasts longer than a common cold but usually doesn’t need antibiotics or medical treatment. While adults get several colds each year, bronchitis, or “chest colds,” are less common, affecting about 5% of adults annually. The persistent cough that comes with bronchitis makes it seem more serious, leading many to visit their primary care provider. What is bronchitis? Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchi, the tubes that carry air from the windpipe to the lungs. It often starts as an infection in the nose, sinuses, ears, or throat and then moves to the bronchi. The main symptom is a cough, which can be dry or produce phlegm that may be yellow or green, indicating your body is fighting the infection. Other symptoms include fatigue, sore throat, chest discomfort, wheezing, or shortness of breath. Like a cold, bronchitis usually resolves on its own, but symptoms can last up to three weeks. You...

With rising temperatures due to climate change, it’s important to find ways to stay cool. Just walking across a parking lot in the heat can make you sweat. This summer has been tough for everyone. Don’t wait until you’re overheated to cool down. Be aware of high temperatures throughout your day and try these 14 tips to stay cool: Cover the Basics Check the weather : Use a weather app to track hourly temperatures and plan your day around the hottest times. Stay Hydrated : Drink plenty of fluids to replace what you lose through sweat. Women need about 11 cups (88 ounces) and men need about 15 cups (120 ounces) per day. If you’re outdoors a lot, you’ll need even more. Seek air conditioning : Spend time in air-conditioned places during the hottest parts of the day. If you don’t have AC, visit a mall, library, movie theater, or cooling center. Use fans wisely : Fans can help cool you down by blowing heat away from your body. If the air is hot, wet your skin with a spray bottle or wet wipe t...

Should I get the shingles vaccine? Q: I’m 55, and a friend my age just got the shingles vaccine and urged me to do the same. But I’ve heard the shots can cause severe arm pain for days. Is it really worth it? A: Yes, it usually is. The shingles vaccine, given in two doses over several months, helps prevent a much bigger problem than a sore arm or other side effects like fatigue, fever, and achiness. The vaccine called Shingrix is very effective against shingles, which is a reactivation of the chickenpox virus that stays dormant in your nerves. Shingles can cause a very painful skin rash and may lead to a complication called postherpetic neuralgia, which is severe nerve pain that can last for months or even years after the rash disappears. It’s smarter to prevent these issues rather than avoid the shingles vaccine because of temporary side effects. Shingrix is FDA-approved for adults 50 and older. Discuss your concerns with your doctor and get her advice. Depositphoto